PHILADELPHIA — The Phillies finally made it official after a dominant season.
Having taken control of the National League East on May 3, they maintained a 10-game lead by July 5, never letting any team come within five games of them. The Phillies dominated the East this year and held the best record in baseball for much of the season.
On Monday night, they solidified their place at the top, defeating the Cubs 6-2 at Citizens Bank Park to clinch their first NL East title in 13 years. This is another milestone on their quest for the franchise’s third World Series championship.
Every team has its weaknesses, but the Phillies are the team nobody wants to face in the postseason. Their starting rotation is stacked with four reliable arms: Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Cristopher Sánchez, and Ranger Suárez.
The lineup boasts MVP-caliber talent, including Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber. Meanwhile, their bullpen has been one of the most effective in baseball, making Philadelphia a formidable postseason contender.
J.T. Realmuto set the tone Monday night with a two-run homer to center in the second inning, giving the Phils an early 2-0 lead. Kyle Schwarber added a solo shot in the third inning for his 37th homer and 100th RBI of the season. He became the first Phillies player since Ryan Howard (2006-11) to have consecutive 100-RBI seasons.
Aaron Nola took control from there, allowing just two runs over six-plus innings. Known for his clutch performances, Nola has been dominant in clinching games since 2022, with a 1.62 ERA and 46 strikeouts in seven such starts.
The bullpen closed it out, and as the final out was recorded, the Phillies poured onto the field to celebrate with their fans.
Senior Reporter Todd Zolecki has covered the Phillies since 2003, and for MLB.com since 2009. Follow him on Facebook .